The Problem with MLB’s Weather Delay Policies
Major League Baseball has been facing criticism in recent years for its handling of weather delays during games. Two recent incidents in St. Louis and Oakland have brought this issue to the forefront once again.
St. Louis Debacle
The game between the White Sox and Cardinals at Busch Stadium went into extra innings, with the Cardinals loading the bases in the bottom of the 10th inning. However, heavy rain started to fall, leading to a three-hour delay before play resumed. This decision to wait out the storm instead of suspending the game and finishing it the next day has raised questions about player safety and fan experience.
“Why on Earth would you do that?” questioned one observer. “The teams had another game the next day. Waiting for three hours in such conditions is simply ridiculous.”
Oakland’s Misstep
In Oakland, a heavy rain event delayed the start of the Marlins/A’s game by over three hours. With a low attendance of around 1,000 fans, the decision to proceed with the game instead of postponing and playing a doubleheader the next day has been met with criticism.
“I simply do not understand the reasoning behind these delays of three hours or more,” remarked another critic. “MLB and the MLBPA need to be more respectful of players, gameday staff, and fans. Having a game end seven hours after its scheduled start due to weather isn’t acceptable.”
A Call for Change
It’s clear that MLB needs to reevaluate its approach to weather delays. Instead of waiting for hours on end, a more proactive solution would be to suspend games after a reasonable period and resume play the next day. This would ensure the safety and well-being of players and provide a better experience for fans.
With advancements in technology and scheduling flexibility, there is no excuse for subjecting players and fans to unnecessarily long delays. It’s time for MLB to prioritize common sense and practicality when dealing with inclement weather during games.
By implementing more efficient and player-friendly policies, MLB can enhance the overall game experience and demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of all involved.
